by Washington, D.C. — The first weekend of 2026 arrives with a mix of fresh New Year energy and final chances to enjoy beloved holiday traditions across the D.C. region. From landmark light displays and theater performances to outdoor skating, museums, and live music, there’s no shortage of ways to kick off the year around the nation’s capital.
If you’re still working through your seasonal bucket list — or simply looking for something new to do — this weekend offers a little bit of everything across D.C., Maryland, and Northern Virginia.
Final weekend for popular holiday attractions
This weekend marks the last chance to catch several seasonal favorites before they disappear for the year. Visitors still have time to experience ZooLights, ICE! featuring “The Polar Express”, and Season’s Greenings at the U.S. Botanic Garden, all of which wrap up after this weekend.
With winter weather settling in, these festive displays remain a favorite for families, couples, and visitors hoping to stretch the holiday spirit just a bit longer.
Washington Monument projections kick off America’s 250th anniversary
One of the biggest highlights of the weekend takes place at the Washington Monument, where a special nightly projection show is launching in honor of the United States’ upcoming 250th birthday in 2026.
For the first time ever, projections will appear on all four sides of the monument. The free light display runs nightly through Jan. 5, with shows scheduled between 7 p.m. and 10 p.m.
This historic installation marks the official start of a yearlong celebration leading up to America’s semiquincentennial.
Unconventional theater: Elvis’ Birthday Fight Club
For something wildly different, Elvis’ Birthday Fight Club returns to the stage at GALA Hispanic Theatre with performances Thursday through Saturday.
Described as part fight club, part burlesque, and fully over-the-top, the show celebrates Elvis Presley’s birthday with spectacle, satire, and chaos. Tickets start at $33.85, though several shows are already sold out.
The production is 21+ only due to coarse language, nudity, and adult humor. Those who miss the D.C. run can catch performances later this month in Baltimore.
Start the year outdoors with a hike or skate
If your New Year’s resolution includes getting outside, this weekend offers several easy ways to do just that.
Across Fairfax County, residents can take part in a First Hike challenge. Anyone who visits a county park and submits a photo can enter a First Hike Photo Contest, making it a fun incentive for families and solo explorers alike.
Prefer ice to trails? Several skating options are open:
- The National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden Ice Rink is open Friday through Sunday (closed only on New Year’s Day)
- The Wharf’s over-water ice rink remains open through the holiday with extended winter-break hours
- Cameron Run’s Ice and Lights in Northern Virginia offers daytime skating
Theater productions continue into the New Year
Live theater remains a strong draw this weekend, with multiple shows still running across the region.
At the National Theatre, “Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical” continues through Sunday, making it a final family-friendly option before the holiday season officially ends.
Meanwhile, the Shakespeare Theatre Company has extended its production of “Guys and Dolls” through Jan. 8, giving audiences additional chances to catch the classic musical.
Read Also: Nearly 2,000 Products Recalled After Contamination Found at Minneapolis Distribution Facility
Museum events and free admission opportunities
Museums across D.C. are also offering special programming this weekend.
The Anacostia Community Museum is hosting Kwanzaa-related programming and giving visitors one last opportunity to explore the “A Bold and Beautiful Vision” exhibit ahead of its closing reception on Sunday.
The National Museum of Women in the Arts will hold its free community day on Sunday, though advance tickets are required and expected to go quickly.
Hands-on fun for crafters
Those looking for something creative can head to College Park, where Made in Maryland’s Make It Bar is hosting daily crafting sessions.
From 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., visitors can enjoy a free draft beverage with the purchase of any craft project, with options starting at $10. It’s a relaxed way to ease into the new year while making something by hand.
More things to do in Washington, D.C.
D.C. itself offers a packed lineup of events throughout the weekend:
- Free bluegrass and cheap beer at Union Stage (Friday)
- The 30+ Party – Back to Da Club Night at 9:30 Club
- Washington Capitals home game at Capital One Arena
- DC Dating Live! at Howard Theatre
- Friends of Tenley Library Book Sale at the Tenley-Friendship Neighborhood Library
More to do in Maryland
Maryland residents have plenty of free and low-cost options:
- Glen Echo Park Civil Rights and History Tour (Saturday morning)
- Pour House Trivia at Silver Branch locations in Rockville and Silver Spring
- Dinosaur Park Open House in Laurel, perfect for families
More to do in Virginia
Northern Virginia also delivers a full slate of entertainment:
- $5 Comedy Night at the State Theatre in Falls Church
- Winter Lakeside Lantern Walks at Lake Accotink in Springfield
- Bull Run Festival of Lights in Centreville (running through Jan. 4)
- Comedy Night in Leesburg at the Tally Ho Theater
- Theater production “In Clay” at Signature Theatre (running through Feb. 1)
A busy start to 2026 around the capital
Whether you’re squeezing in the last of the holiday magic or jumping straight into New Year adventures, the first weekend of 2026 offers something for every interest around Washington, D.C.
From iconic monuments and museums to skating rinks, theaters, and live music venues, the region is proving that winter doesn’t slow things down.
What are you planning to check out this weekend? Share your plans in the comments and let others know what’s worth seeing around D.C.
